The South Houston area is loaded with talented athletes who give it there all in their respective fields of play.
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers powered by UTMB Health, where we’re highlighting five standouts from this past week who stole the headlines.
Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week, as we enter the thick of District-play this Spring.
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Easton Pyle -- Clear Springs Boys Soccer
Despite entering the postseason as the fourth seed in District 24-6A, Clear Springs has shown no signs of disadvantage.
The Chargers have defied expectations with dominant playoff performances, rolling past Humble (5-1) in the opener before pulling off a stunning 1-0 upset against Ridge Point in the area round.
Now sitting at 11-9-5, their record doesn’t fully reflect the threat they pose.
Under Coach Justin Heller, Clear Springs has made a habit of rising to the occasion, and no moment exemplified that more than sophomore midfielder Easton Pyle’s game-winning goal on Tuesday.
Locked in a defensive battle against Ridge Point, Pyle capitalized on a precise cross from junior Kaden Watson, delivering the decisive strike that sent the Chargers to the third round. His clutch performance proved vital in toppling a Ridge Point squad considered among the regional favorites.
While Watson stole the show in the opening-round win with a hat trick, Pyle’s heroics in the latest matchup cemented his importance to this playoff run.
As Clear Springs continues its postseason push, his ability to step up in crucial moments could make all the difference.
Gisele Kehres -- Friendswood Girls Soccer
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Friendswood continues to solidify its reputation as one of the top 5A programs in Texas, boasting a stellar 21-2-1 record as they push toward a potential state tournament appearance—their first since 2021.
With four consecutive playoff runs reaching at least the third round, the Mustangs remain a formidable force under Coach Laura Peter.
A key factor in their success? Senior forward/midfielder Gisele Kehres, whose offensive firepower has been nothing short of exceptional.
Kehres has been the driving force behind Friendswood’s attack, racking up an impressive 37 goals and 16 assists this season. While she serves as the team’s primary scoring threat, she’s far from alone.
Freshman standout Ashley Baxter has provided additional firepower with 23 goals and 30 assists, while versatile sophomore Kate Pike has contributed 16 goals and six assists.
Meanwhile, sophomore goalkeeper Addison Kingsley has anchored the defense with 109 saves, ensuring balance on both ends of the field.
With a deep and talented roster, led by the prolific play of Kehres, Friendswood is poised to make another deep postseason run. If they continue at this pace, a long-awaited return to the state tournament could be well within reach.
Shiloh Grays -- Pearland Girls Track & Field
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Who says athleticism should be limited to just one sport?
After playing a key role in Pearland’s girls basketball playoff run, sophomore Shiloh Grays has seamlessly transitioned to track and field—where she’s proving to be just as dominant.
Grays made a statement at the recent Clear Falls Knights Relays, capturing gold in the 100m hurdles with a blazing time of 14.92 seconds. She also secured first place in the high jump, clearing 5-6.00, and played a key role in Pearland’s relay team, which swept the event’s proceedings.
With elite talent surrounding her, Grays is poised for a deep run in the UIL track and field postseason. If her early performances are any indication, a trip to Austin could very well be on the horizon.
Richard Lee -- Dickinson Boys Track & Field
The Dickinson Gators have long been a staple of Houston’s track and field scene, and senior Richard Lee is proving why.
Lee showcased his speed at the prestigious Texas A&M Bluebonnet High School Invitational, earning silver medals in both the 100-meter and 200-meter races.
He then followed up that strong performance with a first-place finish in the 200-meter dash at the Port Arthur Relays, further solidifying his reputation as one of the region’s top sprinters.
His success isn’t a solo effort, as Lee continues to be supported by standout teammates William King, Omar Chavez, Jacob Richards, and Camryn Grimaldo.
With a talented squad around him and momentum on his side, Lee is poised for an exciting postseason as he looks to leave his mark on the UIL track and field circuit.
Zachary Tuxhorn -- Clear Lake Baseball
After a rocky start to the season, Clear Lake has hit its stride, surging to a perfect 5-0 record in District 24-6A.
The Falcons most recently edged out Dickinson 2-1, improving to 13-7-3 on the year and solidifying their status as district title favorites. However, with tough matchups against Deer Park and Clear Creek still ahead, the race is far from over.
Among the many weapons in Coach Josh Bromberg’s lineup, none have been more impactful than Zachary Tuxhorn.
The Blinn College-commit has been a force both behind the plate and at bat, proving why he was a first-team all-district selection in 2024. With his consistent production, he looks poised to repeat that honor—and possibly exceed it.
The first step for Clear Lake is securing the 24-6A title. From there, Tuxhorn and the Falcons have their sights set on a deep postseason run.